Risk She Feared Most

Ana’s research revealed two likely scenarios. In some cases, a child would reunite with their birth parents, uncover their reasons for leaving, and choose to reconcile. This often strained the bond with their adoptive family. In other situations, the birth parents rejected the child again, worsening feelings of abandonment and insecurity.

To Ana, neither outcome felt worth the risk. She saw only potential pain in either path, and the idea unsettled her deeply. Still, she trusted her instincts and gave the judge the response she knew would sound right. It was the safest answer, even if it didn’t reflect her fears.